Performance and Driving Impressions

2018 Subaru Outback | Performance and Driving Impressions Review

Performance and Driving Impressions Rating:

Despite its station-wagon-like proportions, the Outback’s performance numbers speak to its mission as an alternative to the mid-size crossover. As a pure wagon substitute, the Outback’s dull driving dynamics are disappointing. Considered as a crossover, however, the Subaru’s more carlike characteristics give it an edge versus clumsier competitors.

What’s New for 2018?

Subaru claims the 2018 Outback has a smoother ride thanks to suspension tweaks; the steering and brakes are improved, too. Despite these changes, performance on our test track should be relatively similar to the 2017 model we tested last year.

2017 Subaru Outback

Acceleration

The Outback is anything but quick when equipped with the smaller 2.5-liter flat-four engine. Exacerbating the issue is the Outback’s standard CVT, which fails to present even the illusion of peppy acceleration. While the four-cylinder never feels so slow as to be dangerous, we’d certainly welcome more liveliness.

Those looking for extra oomph may want to consider the six-cylinder Outback 3.6R, which can only be optioned on the Outback Limited and Touring trims, the least expensive of which starts at $35,870.

Test Results: Acceleration, Outback 2.5L Flat-4

Test Results: Acceleration, Outback 3.6L Flat-6

Ride, Handling, and Steering

The Outback’s ride and handling fare poorly compared with station wagons; however, next to similar-sized crossovers, the Subaru is competitively competent.

Comfortable and capable enough in day-to-day driving, the Outback suffers from less body roll than its high seating position would suggest. Still, don’t confuse the Outback with anything particularly sporty, as neither its lifeless steering nor its low-grip tires offer the faith required to hustle it through curvy back roads.

Test Results: Maximum Cornering Capability

Braking

Braking is not the Subaru Outback’s forte. With a 70-mph-to-zero braking distance of 192 feet, our 3859-pound Outback 3.6R Touring didn’t just perform poorly among its competitive set, it simply performed poorly. Consider that a 2015 Ford Expedition, heavier by 2269 pounds, required 22 feet less to come to a halt from the same velocity. Adding salt to the Outback’s braking wound is a rather squishy brake pedal.